The Russian leader used his annual speech to justify his so-called special military operation in Ukraine.
French President Emmanuel Macron is safe after reports of explosions in Damascus where he was meeting Syrian counterpart Ahmed al-Sharaa. Videos showed smoke rising near a hotel, and a security source reported two explosive devices wounded several people.
UK newspapers cover US President Trump's request to Fifa regarding a red card, Prince Harry's UK visit and accommodation dispute, a rise in ADHD disability benefits, Ukrainian President Zelensky's views on the war, and a new endometriosis test.
UK newspapers lead with President Trump's alleged lobbying of FIFA to overturn a red card ban for a US player, Prince Harry being denied a stay at Buckingham Palace, and a rise in ADHD disability benefit claims without work requirements.
Tehran held a massive funeral for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, drawing millions of mourners in a display of grief and political messaging. However, many Iranians stayed away due to economic hardship and recent protests, with some blaming Khamenei for the crackdown. The funeral events aim to portray him as a transcendent figure, while critics question his legacy.
A BBC World Service investigation has identified Yurii Temerbek and two other men accused of torturing and sexually assaulting civilians in Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine. Survivors describe systematic abuse in secret detention centers, with allegations including beatings, electric shocks, and sexual violence. The accused men appear to be living ordinary lives in Russia and occupied Ukraine, while Ukrainian authorities pursue criminal proceedings against them.
Ukraine's Air Force stated a "serious shortage" of interceptor missiles prevented them from shooting down any of the 23 ballistic missiles Russia fired at Kyiv. At least 18 people were killed in the attack, with widespread destruction reported.
